Founded in 2014, Holly Creek Bee Ranch started as a hobby and quickly grew into a sideliner beekeeping operation fueled by passion and dedication. Over the years, our focus has shifted toward breeding high-quality bees with strong genetics, ensuring healthier, more resilient colonies.

In 2020, we made a significant step in our breeding program by acquiring the Martha Carpenter Mite Mauler line of bees to enhance our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy. The results were undeniable—these bees exhibited a natural ability to combat phoretic mites by chewing them, leading to lower mite counts and stronger hives. Seeing these benefits firsthand, we applied rigorous selection pressure to further develop mite and disease-resistant stock. While we do not claim to be a treatment-free operation, we do use organic acids as needed to manage mite loads and maintain colony health. Our breeding efforts continue to produce bees that demonstrate greater mite tolerance and improved overall resilience.

To further enhance our program, we incorporated VSH (Varroa Sensitive Hygiene) genetics in 2021 and 2022 by purchasing VSH virgin queens from Cory Stevens. These traits have significantly improved our colonies' ability to suppress mites and brood diseases, leading to stronger, more sustainable hives. VSH is not a distinct breed but rather a set of heritable traits that can be incorporated into any bee lineage, and we’ve successfully integrated them into our existing stock using instrumental insemination and careful breeding selection.

Instrumental insemination, which we introduced in 2021, has been a game-changer. This technique allows us to precisely control our genetics and advance our breeding program at a faster pace. Through extensive testing and selective breeding, we identify colonies that excel in hygienic behavior, honey production, and temperament—ensuring that only the best traits are passed on. We firmly believe that genetic diversity and natural resistance are critical to long-term colony health and survival.

At Holly Creek Bee Ranch, our mission is simple: to raise stronger, healthier, and more resilient honeybees through responsible breeding and innovative beekeeping practices. We’re proud to share the results of our hard work with fellow beekeepers, helping to create more sustainable apiaries for the future.